The Coalition of the Billing

This article isn't too much of a surprise if you've watched US diplomatic operations and aid over the years, but it's still something to see it in black and white.

The US uses its aid budget to bribe those countries which have a vote in the United Nations security council, giving them 59 per cent more cash in years when they have a seat, according to research by economists.....

When there is a controversial vote in prospect, the premium for countries with a security council seat is even higher. US aid surges by as much as 170 per cent, bringing in a £23m windfall, while the UN spends an extra £4m.